Coronation Chicken Recipe: Delia Smith's Classic
Delia Smith's Coronation Chicken recipe is a timeless classic, perfect for picnics, parties, or a special Sunday lunch. This iconic dish, originally created for Queen Elizabeth II's coronation in 1953, has become a staple of British cuisine. This guide will walk you through Delia Smith's renowned recipe, providing tips and variations to make it your own.
Understanding Delia Smith's Approach
Delia Smith is known for her meticulous attention to detail and her clear, easy-to-follow instructions. Her Coronation Chicken recipe reflects this, emphasizing fresh, high-quality ingredients and a balance of flavors. The key to her recipe lies in the creamy, subtly spiced sauce that perfectly coats the tender chicken.
Ingredients for Delia Smith's Coronation Chicken (serves 4-6)
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 tbsp mild curry powder
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup chicken stock
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup apricot jam
- 2 tbsp mango chutney
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt (or crème fraîche)
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until softened. Stir in the crushed garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Bloom the Spices: Add the curry powder, turmeric, ginger, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to release their aromas. This process, known as "blooming," enhances the flavor of the spices.
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Make the Sauce: Stir in the chicken stock, mayonnaise, apricot jam, mango chutney, Greek yogurt (or crème fraîche), and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and coat it evenly with the sauce. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve warm or cold, garnished with fresh coriander.
Tips and Variations for Delia Smith's Coronation Chicken
- Chicken Alternatives: Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat.
- Fruit Variations: Experiment with different fruits in the sauce, such as peaches or pineapple.
- Nut Addition: Toasted slivered almonds or chopped cashews add a delightful crunch.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the Coronation Chicken on its own, in sandwiches, wraps, or with rice and salad.
Why Delia Smith's Recipe Stands Out
Delia Smith's Coronation Chicken recipe is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience. Her emphasis on quality ingredients and precise instructions ensures a consistently delicious result. The balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors is expertly crafted, making it a truly memorable dish. By following her recipe meticulously, you can recreate this classic with confidence.
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